Running news, training and gear from Marathon Handbook

The 10K World Record Holder Making the Most Anticipated Women’s Marathon Debut in Valencia

The 10K world record holder grew up in Kenya’s Elgeyo Marakwet County, won two world titles in 2026 and runs her first marathon in Valencia on Dec. 6 against Fotyen Tesfay.

Elite Runners

John Korir Is Chasing a Rare Repeat at the Valencia Marathon

No man has won Valencia two years running since Samuel Tangus in 2002 and 2003, and with Yomif Kejelcha out, the defending champion starts on Dec. 6 as the fastest man in the field.

Elite Runners

Selemon Barega and Alphonce Simbu Line Up for the Hong Kong Bridge Half-Marathon

Barega’s 57:50 best is more than three and a half minutes quicker than the course record, and Wede Kefale takes on defending champion Grace Nawowuna in Sunday’s women’s race.

Race Coverage

New York City Marathon Disqualifies Houston Runner Who Smoked Marijuana on the Course

Andrea Sager, 35, ran her first marathon in a pink shirt announcing she was single and finished in 5:54. A video of her taking a hit from a spectator has cost her the result, though not the medal.

Race Coverage

A New York Nurse Practitioner Ran Seven Marathons While Pregnant

Deirdre Keane, 38, finished the New York City Marathon at 34 weeks pregnant on Nov. 1, completing all seven World Marathon Majors in 2026.

Runner’s Stories

Yomif Kejelcha Withdraws From Valencia Marathon Due To Injury

The half-marathon world record holder, who ran 1:59:41 on his London debut, will miss the Dec. 6 race. Organizers did not say what the injury is.

Thomas Watson

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Yomif Kejelcha’s Withdrawal Leaves the Valencia Marathon Without a Sub-Two-Hour Runner

John Korir’s 2:02:24 is now the fastest official best in the men’s field, almost three minutes off the mark for Valencia’s €1 million ($1.12 million) world record bonus, and Fotyen Tesfay is the athlete closest to collecting it.

Race Coverage

Marathon Handbook 3

Agnes Ngetich Will Make Her Marathon Debut in Valencia

The 10K world record holder and world half-marathon champion will race Fotyen Tesfay on Dec. 6, with €1 million ($1.12 million) on offer for a women’s world record.

Elite Runners

Marathon Handbook 4

TCS, the Sponsor Behind London and New York, Signs On With the Rio Marathon

Tata Consultancy Services will be the Brazilian race’s AI and technology partner for its 25th edition in May 2027, as Rio’s organizers work to put the race in line for a place among the World Marathon Majors.

Race Coverage

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